The Briar Patch

The Experience:
If you always stay on the beaten path of Lynchburg’s restaurant scene, you may want to consider veering off to The Briar Patch in Amherst, located 15-20 minutes from downtown.

This family-owned establishment has been a place “Where Friends Meet” for decades. The restaurant was built in 1948; Joan Lingerfelt bought it in 1986.

“It’s just comfortable. People love the décor…the wood makes it feel cozy,” said Lingerfelt.

Also adding to the comfortable experience—the Briar Patch servers and staff.

“I get a lot of great comments on our employees. We hire people that are ‘people’ people. They are all really good at what they do, and most of them are long-term,” said Lingerfelt.

What to Try:
Lingerfelt says their soup and salad combos are a popular lunch choice. A big seller is the Greek salad with Kalamata olives, pepperoncini and feta cheese paired with a warm and spicy Charred Chicken & Roasted Red Pepper Soup.

Aside from other popular options like the turkey wrap and the classic hamburger, Lingerfelt says they are always working on the menu to add new, best-selling items.

“We just added a fish taco that people really like. Our chicken salad wrap with a cranberry chutney is new too,” said Lingerfelt.

The Extras:
“Everything is homemade, except for the Catalina, fat-free dressing. We don’t make that!” Lingerfelt joked.

At The Briar Patch, you’ll get a meal that’s as close to home-cooked as you can find, including the desserts. They also cut their own meats in house.

And while you may have to pass on a beer during your lunch break, come to the restaurant for happy hour and check out their new lineup of craft beers.